The Scott County Board of Adjustment plays a vital role in the interpretation and administration of the Georgetown–Scott County Zoning Ordinance. Board Members are responsible for reviewing Conditional Use Permit and Variance applications, as well as hearing appeals from decisions made by the Enforcement Officer.
Core Duties
Conditional Use Permits (CUPs)
Board Members evaluate requests for land uses that are permitted only under specific conditions. This review includes examining applicable state statutes, staff reports, public input, and zoning criteria. Members determine whether a proposed use benefits the community while avoiding unreasonable off-site impacts to surrounding properties. Reasonable conditions may be attached to ensure the use operates safely and appropriately.
Variance Requests
Board Members consider applications from property owners who believe that strict enforcement of zoning regulations would result in unnecessary hardship. Members must determine whether the request meets legal standards, including whether the hardship is unique to the property, not self-created, and whether granting the variance maintains the spirit, intent, and broad applicability of the zoning ordinance.
Additional Responsibilities
Appeals of Administrative Decisions
On occasion, Board Members may hear and decide appeals of decisions made by the Enforcement Officer. These appeals typically involve claims that the zoning ordinance was incorrectly interpreted or applied.
In all cases, Board Members are expected to conduct the business of the Board of Adjustment in a fair, consistent, and open manner.
Meeting Schedule
The Scott County Board of Adjustment meets on the first Thursday of each month at 5:00 PM in the Scott County Fiscal Courtroom. Regular attendance is required.
📄 An application document is available below.